NINE people were arrested on suspicion of drug, immigration and other offences at Chester Railway Station.

But British Transport Police were relieved Operation Shield did not uncover any weapons.

Friday's operation was aimed at deterring all aspects of crime on the railway, with particular emphasis on travelling criminals in possession of drugs and knives.

All those using the station were encouraged to walk through mobile metal detectors during the afternoon and evening. A drugs dog was also on hand to sniff out narcotics.

One person was arrested on suspicion of possession of cannabis and cocaine. Two people suspected of being in possession of cannabis were summoned to appear at court, while one was cautioned after admitting the offence.

Another was apprehended because there was a warrant out for their arrest. Police arrested one individual for alleged ASBO breach.

Three people were arrested by the Immigration Service for suspected immigration offences.

A total of 344 people were checked by the metal detectors and drugs dog and 43 were searched after they were perceived to have acted suspiciously.

A British Transport Police spokesperson said: 'The 'day of action' was about being highly visible and eradicating knife crime and any other form of crime on the railway.

'We know from previous operations that people using the station would be reassured by our presence and the fact we are proactively tackling these issues.'

Operation Shield is a national initiative by British Transport Police to eradicate knife crime on the railways.

The operation was first piloted in the North West at Liverpool Lime Street in March, 2006.